This black and white film “Madero of Mexico” was released in 1942, chronicles the short political life of Francisco Madero (1873-1913), who tried to bring democracy and land reform to Mexico. It opens with the following title screen: “This photoplay does not attempt complete historical accuracy. Its purpose is rather to honor in spirit the memory of a great idealist”. Sweeping views of Mexico at the turn of the 20th century. Under the iron rule of General Porfirio Díaz, wealth flowed into the nation, yet millions of farmers had lost their land as Mexico lost its democracy. A man is whipped in the town square as villagers look on :45. As Díaz held onto dictatorship, Don Francisco Madero, who owned vast estates in Mexico, stepped in 1:20. Madero tosses and turns in bed and the screen shows a book, “Mexico and the Presidential Succession” 1:46. Madero has challenged Díaz and destiny itself 2:13. Madero speaks to the masses 2:22. Madero is arrested during the presidential elections and locked away 2:38. El Diario headline: “Díaz Electo Por Octava Vez”. Díaz has been elected for the eighth time 2:43. The men of Mexico rise up in arms freeing Madero and installing him as president 3:20. The country rejoices 3:35. Madero enters his offices followed by his military officers and Vice President, José María Pino Suárez. Madero sits at his desk 4:10. Madero faces the landowners who opposed him in his presidential offices 4:28. He chooses not to seek revenge and instead passes new land rights for all citizens 4:43. Enemies plot against him to subvert his Democratic message, confuse the people and try and infiltrate the military 5:05. Different men scream at the camera accusing Madero of lying and intrigue 5:20. Madero is frustrated by his own morality and cannot punish the interlopers 5:50. Horses rush into town 6:01. The Army rises against Madero and there is a bloody revolution for 10 full days 6:11. Madero refuses to believe his generals would turn on him. The forces of Félix Díaz entered Mexico City, and a 10-day standoff known as la decena trágica (“the tragic fortnight”) ensued. Accepting General Huerta’s “protection,” Madero fell into his trap: He was arrested by Huerta on Feb. 18, 1913, and executed four days later, though Huerta said he was killed when his supporters tried to free him. With Madero gone, Huerta turned on his fellow conspirators and made himself president. Madero is offered a chance at exile and to peacefully abdicate the presidency. He refuses. 7:20. February 22, 1913. Madero and Suarez are executed in the street by the military 8:34. Horses ride through town as armed men march through the streets 9:10. Freedom is regained in Mexico and the great modernization of Mexico moves forward 9:35. Release date: November 28, 1942 (USA) Director: Edward L. Cahn

Francisco Ignacio Madero González (30 October 1873 – 22 February 1913) was a Mexican revolutionary, writer and statesman who served as the 33rd president of Mexico from 1911 until shortly before his assassination in 1913. A wealthy landowner, he was nonetheless an advocate for social justice and democracy. Madero was notable for challenging long-time President Porfirio Díaz for the presidency in 1910 and being instrumental in sparking the Mexican Revolution.

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This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD, 2k and 4k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com